Organizers of the 15th annual Jerusalem Pride March on Thursday are expecting a record breaking 10,000 people – more than double the usual number – to take part. This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of Shira Banki, stabbed to death during last year’s parade. The march is produced by the Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance, a non-profit organization for the LGBTQ community of Jerusalem and surrounding areas.
Our speakers discussed security arrangements in light of last year’s attacks and the unique challenges the LGBTQ community faces in the Holy City. We visited the Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance to meet with:
Tom Canning, deputy director, Open House Jerusalem
Hadas Bloemendal, activist involved in outreach and dialogue with the Haredi Orthodox community
Nadav Schwartz, community coordinator
A gay couple who are planning to get married during the parade
